Researchers have successfully created a transgenic cow capable of producing human insulin in its milk. This breakthrough could lead to the mass production of insulin without the need for complex facilities or infrastructure. With further testing and FDA approval, this technology has the potential to revolutionize insulin production and...
Researchers found that altering the starch, oil, and amino acid content of a broiler diet can help support healthy growth in coccidiosis-challenged birds. The optimal mix consists of 35.8% starch, 8.9% oil, and 101.3% recommended amino acids.
A new study from the University of Illinois examines factors affecting E. coli contamination on five leafy greens, including romaine and spinach. Researchers found that refrigeration significantly reduces E. coli growth on lettuce, while kale and collards are less susceptible due to their natural antimicrobial properties.
A new study explores how discrimination, gender, and social class intersect to affect Black Americans' personal and relational well-being. Researchers found that racial discrimination and financial strain were associated with lower levels of psychological well-being.
A new study suggests that finasteride, a common hair loss and prostate drug, may also lower cholesterol levels and reduce cardiovascular disease risk in men. In mice, the researchers found significant correlations between finasteride use and lower cholesterol levels, as well as reduced inflammation and atherosclerosis progression.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have identified genomic regions associated with resistance to four diseases in corn: Goss's wilt, gray leaf spot, northern corn leaf blight, and southern corn leaf blight. The study found that multiple genes working together can provide durable resistance against different pathogens.
The project aims to develop a standardized Next Generation Science Storyline that can be delivered in any high school classroom, increasing science literacy and critical thinking among students. Pop-omics, a popcorn-based curriculum, will also provide hands-on lessons on machine learning and AI, connecting with the national AITC program.
A new study proposes a framework for scaling up urban agriculture to leverage transformative food systems change, advance social-ecological resilience, and improve sustainability. The research highlights the potential benefits of urban agriculture, including decentralizing food supplies and mitigating environmental footprints.
A new study from the University of Illinois finds that high-striving minority youth in early adolescence may experience accelerated puberty development, a potential indicator of 'skin-deep resilience,' which can lead to physiological changes such as inflammation and metabolic disorders.
A new study reveals a genetic vulnerability to the herbicide tolpyralate in nearly 50 sweet and field corn lines, with sensitivity increased by adjuvants commonly co-applied with HPPD-inhibitors. The source of the sugary enhancer gene is among the most sensitive genotypes, suggesting widespread potential.
A new study from the University of Illinois finds that extreme rainfall leads to significant spikes in nutrient concentrations, particularly after ½ inch, 1 inch, and 2 inches of precipitation. However, agricultural management practices such as cover crops can lower nutrient levels in water and persist until the end of the growing season.
The University of Illinois initiative brings Denali neighbors together in an online discussion forum to share views on protected area conservation and land management. The study finds that engaging diverse stakeholders leads to collaborative dialogue and thoughtful discussions, despite differing priorities.
A new study from the University of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences examines how Illinois corn and soybean producers make marketing decisions. The research found that farms with lower financial positions tend to store more grain, while bigger and older farms have lower storage costs.
Researchers found a significant decline in glyphosate's ability to control seven major weed species, with most showing signs of adaptation within two to three years. The study suggests that using a pre-emergence herbicide can significantly improve control and reduce variability of glyphosate over time.
Researchers have found that struvite, a recycled phosphorus fertilizer, can reduce nutrient leaching and maintain soybean yields compared to conventional fertilizers. The study showed that struvite can be a full substitute for traditional fertilizers in terms of yield benefits.
A study from the University of Illinois found a correlation between high obesity levels at hospitals and increased C-section rates in Mexico. The researchers analyzed patient data from 226 public hospitals across Mexico, finding that hospitals with higher obesity rates were more likely to perform C-sections.
A new conservation tool, Lion Localizer, helps authorities track the origin of illegally traded lion parts by analyzing mitochondrial DNA. The tool provides critical information on population impact and resource allocation, supporting efforts to protect tiny West African lion populations.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have identified a single major gene controlling waterhemp's resistance to S-metolachlor, a widely used soil-applied herbicide. This finding poses a significant challenge for farmers, as it increases the risk of spread and limits effective weed management options.
Researchers found that as cats gained weight, their gastrointestinal transit time decreased, reducing nutrient extraction. The study also revealed changes in gut microbial composition, with an increase in Bifidobacterium and a decrease in Collinsella, opposite to what has been seen in overweight humans.
A team of animal scientists has developed a new breed of cow that can produce up to 20 times the milk of indigenous breeds, offering a potential game changer for subsistence farmers in Tanzania. The breeding process combines the heat and disease resistance of Gyrs with the milk-producing prowess of Holsteins and Jerseys.
A study by researchers at the University of Illinois found a significant relationship between soy expansion and childhood leukemia deaths in Brazil. Pesticide use in the region has been linked to increased cancer mortality, with an estimated 123 children under 10 dying from ALL associated with pesticide exposure between 2008 and 2019.
A new study from the University of Illinois found that accurate perception of partner's behavior is key to maintaining relationships. Relationship satisfaction acts as a moderating factor between relationship maintenance and commitment.
U of I researchers have developed organic nanozymes that mimic the properties of natural enzymes, exhibiting peroxidase-like activities and detecting glyphosate with adequate accuracy. The OC nanozyme is quicker to produce, cost-effective, non-toxic, and environmentally friendly.
A study from the University of Illinois found that relationship interventions can increase perceived gratitude among low-income couples, which declined over time due to factors such as age and lack of appreciation. The interventions improved communication, satisfaction, but not gratitude, suggesting a unique effect on this dimension.
The Illinois-led project will sequence at least 50 soybean genomes from cultivated lines and wild relatives, as well as 350 high-quality draft genomes. This will enable the identification of genetic variation and its incorporation into better crops, ultimately leading to climate-resilient soybean varieties.
An international team of scientists is recruiting microbes to reduce methane production in cows, with the goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The project involves tracking hydrogen production and utilization during fermentation to redirect excess hydrogens towards more productive end-products.
A new study from the University of Illinois found that children of parents with higher work-related stress have lower socioemotional competency at age 4-5. Meanwhile, mothers' job dissatisfaction does not impact family mealtimes, but fathers' financial dissatisfaction leads to reduced attendance and negative child development outcomes.
A new $1.9 million NIH grant will investigate the role of glycogen in supporting healthy pregnancies. The study aims to understand how glycogen storage in the uterus affects fertility and pregnancy loss, with a focus on obesity's impact on uterine glycogen metabolism.
Researchers from the University of Illinois warn that artificial roosts can be detrimental to bat health due to overheating and inadequate insulation. The experts emphasize the need for further study on the risks associated with these structures.
Researchers at the University of Illinois are exploring how gut microbe communities impact broccoli's health benefits. They plan to identify which microbes maximize the benefits and develop custom probiotics to help people with lower-efficiency microbial communities.
The study found that local communities in coastal Ecuador depend less on tagua trees today than their grandparents did, but still use them for cultural and supporting services. The research highlights the importance of conservation efforts to protect these ecosystem services.
A new study by the University of Illinois and USDA-Agricultural Research Service has identified the key factors influencing sweet corn yield. The analysis found that seed source is a significant variable, with processors having a choice over which hybrids to use, and high nighttime temperatures also impact yield.
Researchers warn that microplastics and nanoplastics in agricultural soils could contribute to antibiotic-resistant bacteria entering the food chain. This phenomenon is not well known, but studies suggest that plastics can act as vectors for transmitting pathogenic and antimicrobial resistant bacteria.
A new study from the University of Illinois finds that stratified sampling is more effective at catching contaminants in infant formula than random sampling. The researchers used computer models to simulate testing finished formula and suggest ways to improve safety plans.
A community-based health program implemented in Madagascar increased vaccination rates in the country's most remote villages. The study found that households with a Catholic or Protestant affiliation were more reluctant to vaccinate their children, highlighting the need to address these barriers in future programs.
A University of Illinois study found unique Mexican black and pinto bean varieties to be high in phenolic compounds and anthocyanins, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The research also identified potential applications for the seed coat extracts in the food industry and cosmetics.
A new study suggests that replacing traditional protein sources with mealworms in high-fat diets can slow weight gain and improve immune response, inflammation, energy metabolism, and cholesterol profiles. Mealworm protein also beneficially alters the ratio of good to bad cholesterol.
Researchers found that soil microbes adapt to drought conditions over time and provide benefits to plants when grown together, even without plant signals. This challenges the long-held assumption of co-evolutionary dialogue between plants and microbes.
The study found two distinct groups: low maternal sleep (5-6 hours/night) and average maternal sleep (7-8 hours/night). Children in the low maternal sleep group slept less. Establishing early bedtime routines and consistent sleep patterns improved sleep duration and reduced sleep problems.
A study by the University of Illinois examines how family forest landowners in Maine and New Hampshire approach invasive species management. The researchers found that landowners prefer mechanical control methods, which are more expensive but less effective than chemical control, due to strong neighborhood effects. This has implication...
A new study from the University of Illinois finds that converting food waste into energy and bioproducts can be profitable in Illinois. The study analyzes supply chain logistics and technological and economic factors to determine the feasibility of this solution.
The US canned and frozen corn industry is struggling in the Midwest due to climate change, with rainfed production areas experiencing significant declines. The analysis also found a strong relationship between extreme temperatures and sweet corn yield loss.
A new study suggests that while winter cover crops can reduce nitrogen pollution by up to 30%, their effectiveness will decrease under future climate scenarios. Illinois' corn yields are expected to suffer more than soybean yields, especially in southern regions, as warmer temperatures and changing rainfall patterns impact crop growth.
A new study from the University of Illinois reveals a wealth of untapped diversity in popcorn's genetic code, with over 308,000 variations across the genome. The research may help improve the agronomic performance of the crop and uncover its long history of movement across North America.
A new study from the University of Illinois shows that carbon mitigation payments can increase net returns and reduce income risk for farmers growing bioenergy crops. The researchers found that higher biomass prices and targeted carbon credits can make these crops more appealing to farmers, regardless of their risk preference.
A new study from the University of Illinois found that fathers who use constructive conflict resolution strategies show more involvement and warmth towards their children, leading to positive child development. This approach can help minimize stress and promote healthier family dynamics.
A study from the University of Illinois analyzed 7,839 US meat processing plants to identify factors associated with plant survival. Small and medium-sized plants were more likely to fail than large plants, while business diversification played a critical role in small plant survival.
Research shows that corn takes up about 67% of its nitrogen naturally from soil, rather than fertilizer. However, applying different forms and timing of fertilizers can improve efficiency, with nitrate being the most efficient source. Banding placement was also found to be more efficient than broadcasting.
Researchers at the University of Illinois developed a new method using NIR spectroscopy to detect three types of allergens in quinoa flour. The method is non-destructive, non-invasive, and highly accurate, providing real-time results that can be performed with minimal training.
Researchers identified three main topics: environmental perception, risk assessment and mitigation, and human factors and ergonomics in automated agricultural machines. The study highlights the need for improved sensors and safety standards to address the challenges posed by dynamic environments.